Mind
The Collection.
MIND- Gives a truly raw account into mental suffering and although deeply personal, Messenhigh broadens her perspective to connect her own pain with that of the human condition. This is where we can see the artists most haunting works- an honest and courageous portrayal of perpetual sadness.
During periods of depression Messenhighs way of working becomes extremely chaotic- often working on multiple pieces at a time, squeezing paint straight onto canvas and using her hands to move the paint around with urgency. She explains how (when working like this) she has little to no idea what the end result will be, nor is that of great concern, instead the artist feels an uncontrollable urge to express the darker parts of her psyche in order to heal and move on. This allows her work to adapt, developing ideas organically as she works.
Much of the subject matter in this collection centre around distorted human form and facial features. At times resembling the artists own likeness, the intent being to depict a consequential feeling or realisation in her life rather than a visually realistic depiction.
